Saturday, December 16, 2006



Finally getting around to posting a picture from our First Anniversary celebration. Nope, that's not Santa in the hat!

Holiday Notes and All

Happy Hanukkah, Blessed Yule, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all (and to all a good night!)

Beads N Botanicals will be offering its new class schedule for the upcoming year, hopefully BEFORE the end of the year.

More and more folks are expressing an interest in meditation for dealing with stress, pain and insomnia. Almost all of our Wednesday night classes include at least a short meditation, with the Meditation for Relaxation classes being, of course, much longer meditations.

Wednesday Night Classes do not require pre-registration, cost $5.00 and start at 7 p.m. Please note, however, that it is best to arrive about 15 minutes BEFORE the start of class, to make sure you are not locked out. Once we are about to start, the doors are locked to avoid disturbing the rest of the class.

Hope to see you here in the New Year. The next Wednesday Class will be January 10, 2007, on The Seven Chakras: What the “wheels of light” represent

More on jewelry making and herbal classes as we finalize the schedule.

Ways to Become More Satisfied and Happier

This is a great article on the psychology of satisfaction.

This article discusses how we are happy, how to bring greater happiness into our lives and experience more positive feelings.

At this time of year, rather than saying "Bah, Humbug," check out what they have to say.

A Psychology of Satisfaction

Thursday, December 14, 2006

Becoming an Optimist...Can You Change Your Personality?

This is a great article on changing your outlook and improving your life.

Rather than saying, nothing will change, read this and allow for the possibilities!


Can You Change Your Personality?

Saturday, December 2, 2006

Hot Mulled Cider and Other Winter Warming Drinks

In my Fall/Winter newsletter, I included a simple recipe for hot, mulled, that is, spiced, apple cider.

One local Hoopestonite almost refused to take the newsletter, after stopping in my shop because she wasn't sure if it weren't "witchcraft." I told her, read it and make up your mind.

She came back later that afternoon to ask me some herbal questions.

Now, the following link is about hot alcoholic drinks with spices. Personally, I find hot apple cider WITHOUT rum to be quite nice.

BTW, we do sell mulling spices.

Hot Holiday Drinks

Friday, December 1, 2006

First Snow of Winter on December 1st

Winter has shown its face here in Central Illinois. Last night lots of wind and rain blew through our area and continued into the morning, with temperatures dropping enough for us to get a small amount of snow, not even enough to cover the lawns as of 11 a.m.

Made me glad I had taken advantage of Fall's last hurrah on the weekend. Got my daffodils in the ground and some other needed work done around the house.

Now that we will probably be indoors for the duration, it is a good time to think about ways to promote health while trying to keep warm.

Especially if you have a well insulated house, it's important to make sure there is enough fresh air coming in. Check furnaces, water heaters, vent pipes, to make sure everything is working properly. Installing a carbon monoxide moniter could literally be a lifesaver.

I find diffusing "Clear Air," a blend of several essential oils, including eucalyptus, oregano and lemon, to not only freshen the indoor air, but help as a preventative for catching and transmitting colds, flu and other air bourne illnesses.

While you're trying to keep warm, remember, you don't have to blast the heat. It's cozy to curl up on a couch or in a chair with a throw blanket around you, a cup of hot tea and a good book.

Wednesday, November 29, 2006

Class Schedule Changes at Beads N Botanicals

Quick update. Tonight's Wednesday class will cover the 22 Major Arcana cards, NOT the four suites. (Had to cancel it as originally scheduled because of our TV appearance EARLY the next morning on Nov. 16)

Remember, please show up at least ten minutes before the start of Wednesday night classes to avoid getting locked out. Although you do not have to pre-register for Wednesday night classes, we do lock the door and will not open it once I've started the introductory meditation.

Also, instead of Wire Wrapping Pendants, this Thursday will be a Basic Stringing: Necklaces class. Wire Wrapping Pendants is moved to next week, on Thursday, Dec. 7, at 7 p.m.

Using the Mind to Cure the Body

Okay, talk about timing. I only saw this article on MSN the yesterday AFTER I had written my little bit about meditation and pain. Coincidence? Or synchronicity? I'd say the later.


Using the Mind to Cure the Body

Friday, November 24, 2006

Meditation, Not Just for Relaxation, But Also Pain Relief

Today I was reminded of why I started offering my “Meditation for Relaxation” classes.

A customer popped in to say hello and reiterate that she appreciated the meditations we do at our Wednesday night classes. For her, they were a reminder of how to chill out without drugs or alcohol. Meditating, along with seeing a chiropractor, using certain herbs externally, and developing a better outlook on life, has allowed her to stop taking prescription pain medications.

What’s wonderful is that these changes have made a difference in how she feels about herself. She feels terrific. It’s not that she doesn’t experience pain, but she has the coping mechanisms to deal with it without resorting to overusing pain meds.

Other folks have discovered that meditation gives them a quiet space away from the stresses of work and family. While it is nice to have a guided meditation at the shop, they have remembered how it felt, and meditate on their own at home.

Customers report to me they are sleeping better at night, feeling calmer and more relaxed after our meditations on Wednesday nights.

Wednesday, November 22, 2006

News, News and More News

It’s been nothing but exciting times for us at Beads N Botanicals these last couple of weeks.

As you already know, the News Gazette in Lafayette, IN ran a little blurb about our shop’s anniversary that was this past Saturday. Then the Commercial News in Danville, IL also ran a bit in their business section.

On top of that, our local weekly paper, The Chronicle, ran a story about our anniversary celebration.

But probably the “big” news was our appearance on the ABC affiliate station, Channel 15, out of Champaign, IL.

Justin and I appeared on the Sunrise This Morning show, on Thursday, November 16, EARLY in the morning. We talked about the upcoming anniversary celebration at the shop. Justin did a little origami demonstration. The folks were real nice at the station (although I think the Thanksgiving turkey tips got a bit more air time than us!).

Thank you to the local friends who taped the show for us.

Today a photographer from the Commercial News took some pictures and I talked with Dana about our shop. The story should appear in this Saturday’s paper.

Thank goodness we have off tomorrow for Thanksgiving. It’s been a whirlwind adventure here in Hoopeston.

Friday, November 10, 2006

The News Gazette in Lafayette, IN, which is about an hour away from us, posted a little blurb about Beads N Botanicals' first anniversary celebration on Saturday, November 18.

News Gazette Blurb about Beads N Botanicals’ Anniversary

Saturday, November 4, 2006

Basic Wire Working: Earrings

I've had a few people ask me, why do you consider making earrings to be a "basic" wire working class?

The answer is simple, you bend and twist wire to make dangle earrings!

This class is a great intro to some simple, but very important wire working techniques. It is an opportunity to get your feet wet, so to speak, without a major investment in materials (all classes INCLUDE materials in the fee).

Once you learn the simple wire working techniques for making earrings, you can apply them to making pendants for necklaces, or simple beaded bracelets.

Not only do you learn wire working, you also walk away with TWO pairs of earrings, perfect for yourself, or as gifts for family and friends.

Plus, making earrings is fun.

Friday, November 3, 2006

Can a Simple Herbal Oil Actually Banish Pain????

In my experience, the answer is yes. About six weeks ago, I was moving a LOT of wall paper from one storage site to another. The minor backache I had turned into MAJOR sciatica.

Now, it is probably no surprise to anyone who knows me that I tend to stay away from OTC (over-the-counter) drugs, never mind any other kinds! So, for me to take ibuprofen, even three times in three weeks is a lot.

Well, I decided to use some of my Extra Strength PLUS Banish Pain Oil on my back, my left hip and my left calve, all areas in pain. I discovered that, when I used this oil, within about 15 minutes, the pain subsided.

Gradually, with stretching, being a bit careful and having the oil sooth the inflammation, I was pain-free.

Clients and customers who deal with chronic pain, such as knee problems, arthritic knuckles, carpal tunnel and other repetive stress injuries have reported noticing relief within about 10 minutes of using the oil on the affected area.

If you are interested in possibly ordering some of this oil to try for yourself, you can go to our webstore at Extra Strength Banish Pain Oil

BTW. I am making NO medical claims whatsoever for these products (regular, extra strength and extra strength PLUS) and am only relating my experience and that of local folks who have also used them.

Thursday, October 26, 2006

"Scents able" Marketing

This is a National Public Radio, Marketplace report.
http://marketplace.publicradio.org/shows/2006/10/25/PM200610255.html

Basically, this radio report (the link takes you to the transcript and you can listen to it also) details advertising/marketing's use of scent to draw in consumers and keep them looking at products longer, so they will be most likely to buy them.

Hey, I've been doing that one for years! You know, burning incense at festivals. Anyone who stops in my shop notices the scent, usually favorably.

And, real estate people have known for years that the smell of fresh baked bread, or a cinnamon simmering potpourri makes a house more attractive (on an unconscious level) to potential buyers.

Saturday, October 21, 2006

Beads N Botanicals One Year Anniversary

Hey, it's hard to believe, but Beads N Botanicals will be a year old in less than a month!

We'll be hosting a First Year Anniversary Holiday Gifts & Open House on Saturday, November 18, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mulled cider, special discounts and craft demonstrations will be featured.

Stop by, get a spicy apple cider drink and hang out. Bring your beading crafts to show off.

Beads N Botanicals First Anniversary

Wednesday, September 27, 2006

Holiday Gift Making

Sometimes it can be tough to determine what, if anything, to give to those on your holiday gift list. Either your intended recipients have EVERYTHING, or you just want to avoid giving them the same old thing.

Making gifts gives you the opportunity to tailor a unique gift for EVERYONE on your holiday gift list. And this Fall Beads N Botanicals is offering several great classes to help you do just that.

GIFT IDEA!!!
Basic Wire Working: How to Make Earrings:
This is a great starter class! You’ll learn the basic techniques involved in creating earrings with head pins, eye pins and ear wires. You’ll make two pairs of earrings, one with a dangle. A few other earring styles will be demonstrated as well. $20, 1 hour, materials included.
October 12, 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Thursday
November 9, 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Thursday

GIFT IDEA!!!
Advanced Wire Working: Wire Wrapping Pendants:
Do you have a stone that would make a wonderful pendant? Techniques for caging tumbled and rough rocks in cages of wire will be taught. Hands-on. Wire and stones will be provided. Bring a special piece if, you want. $22, 1 ½ hours, materials included. (Taking Basic Wire Working: How to Make Earrings and/or Intermediate Wire Working is suggested as a prerequisite.)
November 30, 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Thursday

GIFT IDEA!!!
Basic Stringing: Bracelet Design:
Want to learn how to put together a bracelet, but not sure how to begin? Or, how to end it? In this class you’ll learn how to work with specialty beading threads, what a crimp bead is, and how to use it, jump rings, and clasps to finish off your bracelet. $15, 1 hour, materials included.
October 19, 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Thursday

GIFT IDEA!!!
Basic Stringing: Necklace Design:
Want to learn how to put together a necklace, but not sure how to begin? Or, how to end it? In this class you’ll learn how to work with specialty beading threads, what a crimp bead is, and how to use it, jump rings, and clasps to finish off your necklace. Learn about the differences between choker and other-sized necklaces. $18, 1 hour, materials included.
November 2, 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Thursday

GIFT IDEA!!!
Bath Salts and Body Scrubs
How to make lovely scented bath salts and body scrubs. Great for treating yourself, family and friends. $10, includes materials. 1 hour
November 7, 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday

GIFT IDEA!!!
Making Dream Pillows
How to make pillows to send sweet dreams to family and friends. This class discusses herbs traditionally used to induce sleep and also demonstrates how simple (or elaborate) a dream pillow can be. Perfect stocking stuffers!
December 13, 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Wednesday

Thursday, August 24, 2006

Practical Aromatherapy Course: Certification Weekend In Virginia Beach

Come and learn about aromatherapy in Virginia Beach, Va
on November 24, 25 & 26, 2006
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day.

Cost: $450 per person.
Discount of $50 for students paid in full by October 20.

Location: South Independence Blvd.,
Virginia Beach, VA 23542
Wise Weeds Botanicals Studies:
Practical Aromatherapy Course:
Using Essential Oils for Healing:


Medicinal herbalist, perfumer, and Wise Weeds Botanicals' proprietress Catherine Novak designed this course in response to numerous inquiries from individuals who wanted to learn more about the healing properties of essential oils and how to use them. The course material was developed over more than 10 years as a part of Catherine's own learning, teaching and writing experiences.

See below for a complete course outline
and instructions on how to sign up for the class


The Practical Aromatherapy Course enables students to gain both skill and knowledge about essential oils. The empowering coursework develops students' own appreciation for the healing qualities of essential oils, as well as educates them about appropriate resource materials and safety issues.


A basic test at the end of each lesson helps students review and reinforce the knowledge they have gained. Wise Weeds will issue a certificate of satisfactory completion of the course to students who complete each test satisfactorily, and who also complete and submit the final exam.
A book report and special research project are also required.

100 class hours credited for full completion of this course, including submission of lesson tests, final exam, copies of each sampling of essential oils, book report and research project.

Pre-register before November 7, 2006, by mailing your $225 deposit, or $450 total fee, with your name, address and phone number to:

Beads N Botanicals
227 S. Market St.
Hoopeston, IL 60942
Make your check or money order out to Beads N Botanicals. A $35 fee will be charged to any checks with insufficient funds.


You can also pre-register via credit card by calling 217-283-6380.
Paypal payments can go to wiseweeds@hotmail.com



This course exceeds the published National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy's requirements for a Level One course (as set in 2003)


Introduction:
Lesson 1: The Use of Fragrance throughout Time

Lesson 2: Modern Research on the Effects Of Scents

Lesson 3: Processes of Extraction from Plants


Lesson 4: What Are Essential Oils?


Lesson 5: How Do Essential Oils Work?


Lesson 6: Ways To Use Essential Oils

Lesson 7: Nothing is Standard about Essential Oils

Lesson 8: Using Essential Oils Safely: Part I Of II

Lesson 9: Using Essential Oils Safely: Part II Of II

Lesson 10: Blending Essential Oils

Lesson 11: Using Carrier Oils

Lesson 12: Using Essential Oils During Pregnancy

Lesson 13: Buying EO Doesn't Have to Be a Game of Chance

Lesson 14: Aromatherapeutic First Aid

Lesson 15: Review and Wrap Up

Sunday, August 13, 2006

One Tribe:The UK's Occult Talk Show

What is One Tribe? A great site to hear some incredible interviews and music.

It's the UK's Occult Talk Show - hosted by Marc Power and Dirk Bruere, showcasing extraordinary people with extraordinary ideas on a weekly radio talk show: OneTribe on London's ResonanceFM, 104.4 on the FM dial, simultaneous Internet Broadcast and archive podcast of shows available as .mp3 files.

Go here for more information and to listen to past shows"
http://www.onetribe.me.uk

Monday, August 7, 2006

Missed Everyone At Sirius Rising and Starwood

Gosh, this is the first time in almost a dozen years that my son and I have not been on the festival circuit. In addition to smaller events, we had always looked forward to vending at Sirius Rising and Starwood, both events held at Brushwood in Sherman, N.Y.

Business considerations precluded our going this year. Wonderfully, a long-term friend and customer volunteered to post contact info so anyone looking for us could find us. After speaking with her this weekend, I found we really were missed. And I can say, without reservations, we missed seeing you all!

If you haven't already discovered, we now have a storefront in Hoopeston, IL. Not the most "happening" place in the world, however, if you come out and visit us, it will become much more fun. Hint. Hint.

We've already had visitors whom we've known for a few years from festival. It brought back a lot of memories to sit and blend custom oils. Fortunately, our store does NOT have a muddy floor of worn grass!!! Yep, dealing with varied weather conditions is one thing I don't miss.

Lots of folks have been asking if we'll be back at Brushwood next year. The answer is, I'm not sure. It's all going to depend on where we need to be at the time, although I'd love to present workshops on herbalism and aromatherapy again at both events.

Ironically enough, I'm now not only teaching herbal, aromatherapy and jewelry making classes, but also classes on meditation, developing intuition, and other topics (as you can see from our class listings below). There's been a small, but growing demand in this area for an environment that is clean, safe, and welcoming for these types of classes, and I decided, after a lot of consideration, to meet that demand.

We're still making Romp in the Woods (TM) incense, oils, soaps and bath salts. And, while they're not up on our website yet, we still have the Luscious Lips and Slick.... soaps. ;*) So, if you can't make it out to see us in person, at least stop by our website!

http://www.wiseweeds.net
Botanicals from Wise Weeds

Thursday, August 3, 2006

Beading & Jewelry Making Classes: August & September 2006

Beads N Botanicals, 227 S. Market St., Hoopeston, IL 60942
217-283-6380

Beading & Jewelry Making Workshops

Basic Wire Working: How to Make Earrings:. $20, 1 hour, materials included.
August 10, 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Thursday September 7, 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Thursday

Advanced Wire Working: Wire Wrapping Pendants: $22, 1 ½ hours, materials included.
August 24, 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Thursday September 21, 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Thursday

Basic Stringing: Bracelet Design: $15, 1 hour, materials included. (Six person limit)
August 3, 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Thursday

Basic Stringing: Necklace Design:. $18, 1 hour, materials included. (Six person limit)
September 14, 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Thursday

Intro to Bead Netting Techniques: $22, 1½ to 2 hours
September 28, 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Thursday

Mushroom and Fungi Workshops in West Virginia

Heard about this and thought you might like to look into it.

Buddy has a pretty extensive background in mycology and looks like he knows his stuff (and is also not afraid to say when he doesn't know something.;*)

Plus, there are other cool workshops at this campground, as well
Appalachian Wildflowers and Fungi -- Identification and Medicinal Properties:
Saturday, Aug. 12
Session I: Foraging for Wild Mushrooms (Buddy Kilpatrick)Saturday, Aug. 12
Session II: Natural History of Wildflowers (Lonnie Murray)Saturday Nature WalkSunday, Aug. 13
Session III: Wildflower Identification and Conservation (Lonnie Murray)Sunday, Aug. 13 Session IV: Medicinal Mushrooms (Buddy Kilpatrick)
Sunday Nature Walkhttp://www.abramscreek.com/events.html

Cathy, Wise Weeds
http://www.wiseweeds.net
Botanicals from Wise Weeds

Classes on Meditation, Intuition, Crystals, Astrology, Tarot and More

Wednesday Night Classes
7 to 8 p.m., $5.00

Held at Beads N Botanicals, 227 S. Market St., Hoopeston, IL 60942
217-283-6380

August 9………Meditation for Relaxation

August 23………Tapping into Your Intuition

September 6…… ………Crystals Used For Healing

September 20……… What Dreams Mean: Tap into the power of dreaming

October 4………Intro to Astrology
The 12 Signs of the Zodiac and what they mean

October 18……..Intro to Astrology
What is a Moon Sign? and. What is an ascendant?

November 1………Crystals Used For Healing

November 15…..…Intro to Traditional Tarot
The 22 major arcana cards and their meanings

November 29……Intro to Traditional Tarot
The four suites of the tarot and what they represent:
Cups Coins Swords Wands

December 13……Making Dream Pillows

January 10, 2007…… The Seven Chakras
What the “wheels of light” represent

January 24, 2007…… Herbal Incenses and how to make them

Herbal & Aromatherapy Workshops: August & September 2006

Beads N Botanicals, 227 S. Market St., Hoopeston, IL 60942
217-283-6380

Herbal & Aromatherapy Workshops

Introduction to Aromatherapy: $10, 1 hour
August 8, 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday September 5, 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday

Secrets of Herbal Teas & Tinctures:
The differences between a cup of tea and medicinal teas. How to prepare a medicinal herb tea. Tinctures versus Teas. $10, 1 ½ hours (Ten person limit)
August 15, 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday

Overcoming Stress Herbally:
Find out about alternative approaches to overcoming stress.
Distinguish between different types of stress: resulting from overwork, physical injury or emotional upset. Information about appropriate herbs and essential oils and other natural aids.
$10 1 hour (Ten person limit)
August 22, 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday

Introduction to Natural Perfumery Parts I & II:
Ever wanted to make your own special perfume? By the end of this class, you will have constructed your own “Designer” scent…with you as the designer! $55, four hours total (plus two 15-minute breaks). Includes all materials.

Part I: Basic Safety Tips, Use of carrier oils. Use of alcohol. Proportions for blending. Blending essential oils to aid health and healing.

Part II: Designing a perfume blend. Tips on developing a recipe. Proportions for blending. Making a blend.
August 26: 1 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Sunday

Keeping Healthy With Kitchen Herbs:
Learn about common kitchen herbs and spices that can contribute to your health and that of your family. Staying healthy can taste great!
$10, 1 hour (Ten person limit)
September 19, 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday

Origami for Kids( Paper Folding) Workshop

Introduction to Origami
Learn how to make the traditional Japanese crane, peace dove and frog using colorful papers and the simple but fun paperfolding techniques developed by the Japanese. Great for kids of all ages, but especially for kids 8 years of age and older. $8.00, 1 hour, including all materials. (Five person limit)
August 12: 11 a.m.-12 p.m Saturday September 9: 11 a.m.-12 p.m Saturday

Sunday, April 16, 2006

Introduction to Orgami

Introduction to Origami:
Origami for Kids
Learn how to make the traditional Japanese crane, peace dove and frog using colorful papers and the simple but fun paperfolding techniques developed by the Japanese. The Japanese believe the crane, a sacred bird, lives for a thousand years and has the power to grant wishes. According to their traditions, anyone who folds a thousand cranes will have their wish granted. Great for kids of all ages, but especially for kids 8 years of age and older.
$8, 1 hours (five person limit)
May 13: 11 a.m.-12 noon. Saturday

Spring Herbal Classes

Keeping Healthy with Kitchen Herbs:
Learn about common kitchen herbs and spices that can contribute to your health and that of your family. Find out how to be an "herbal guerilla" when your family doesn't want to eat healthy, but you want them to! Staying healthy can taste great!
$12, 1 1/2 hours (ten person limit)April 25: 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Tuesday

Introduction to Chinese Medicinals:
This class will highlight differences between Chinese and Western descriptions of body systems. Learn about some commonly used Chinese herbs. Find out about the concept of Yin/Yang as it relates to health. Discover how easy it is to incorporate Chinese herbs into your everyday diet.
$12, 1 1/2 hours (ten person limit)May 2: 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Tuesday

Overcoming Stress Herbally:
Find out about alternative approaches to overcoming stress. Distinguish between different types of stress: resulting from overwork, physical injury or emotional upset. Includes information not only about appropriate herbs but also essential oils and other natural aids.
$12, 1 1/2 hours (ten person limit)May 9: 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Tuesday

Introduction to Natural Perfumery, Parts I & II

Introduction to Natural Perfumery, Parts I & II:Ever wanted to make your own special perfume? By the end of this class, you will have constructed your own "Designer" scent...with you as the designer! $55. 2 hours each session; four hours total. Includes all materials. (six person limit)

Part I: Basic Safety Tips, Use of Carrier Oils, Use of alcohol. Proportions for blending. Blending essential oils to aid health and healing.

Part II: Designing a perfume blend. Tips on developing a recipe. Proportions for blending. Making a blend.

May 16 & 23. 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Two consecutive Tuesdays.

Fun Making Earrings

Our Basic Wire Working Class on April 6 was a lot of fun.

Sometimes I think this class is TOO basic...but, as usual, I was proven right.

For someone who has little or no wire working experience, this class is a great opportunity to get hands on experience.

The next basic class will be on Thursday, May 4, 2006

Sunday, April 2, 2006

Spring 2006 Jewelry Making Classes

Beads N Botanicals is offering more jewelry making workshops starting this Thursday, April 6. You can preregister with a credit card via phone by calling 217-283-6380, during regular business hours. Beads N Botanicals is located in Hoopeston, IL 60942

WIRE WORKING CLASSES

Basic Wire Working: How to Make Earrings: This is a great starter class! You'll learn the basic techniques involved in creating sensational earrings with head pins, eye pins and ear wires. You'll make two pairs of earrings, one with a dangle. A few other earring styles will be demonstrated as well. $20, 1 hour, materials included. (Six person limit) April 6: 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Thursday May 4: 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Thursday

NEW!!!! Intermediate Wire Working: Rings & Things:
A fun way to create both elegant and funky jewelry to match any outfit! You'll learn two techniques involved in creating decorative rings with wire, beads, pearls and semi-precious stones. You'll make two rings, one with beads and stones, another with shaped wire. Learn tips on hammer-finishing wire. $20, 1 1/2 hours, materials included. (Taking Basic Wire Working: How to Make Earrings is suggested, but not required, as a prerequisite.) (Six person limit)
April 20: 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Thursday.

Advanced Wire Working: Wire Wrapping Pendants: Do you have a stone that would make a wonderful pendant? Techniques for caging tumbled and rough rocks in cages of wire will be taught. Hands-on. Bring in a top-drilled bead and a round or oval pendant (can be a tumbled stone). (Or use the ones supplied with the class) Wire and stones will be provided. $25, 1 1/2 hours (We suggest, but do not require, Basic Wire Working: How to Make Earrings, as a prerequisite.) (Six person limit) May 18: 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Thursday

New!!!!Advanced Wire Working: Making Your Own Clasps: Learn how to shape wire by twisting and hammering to make beautiful, unique clasps for bracelets and necklaces. Hands-on. Wire will be provided. $20, 1 1/2 hours (We suggest, but do not require, Basic Wire Working: How to Make Earrings, and/or Intermediate Wire Working as a prerequisite.) (Six person limit) June 1: 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Thursday

BEADING CLASSES

Basic Stringing: Bracelet Design:
Want to learn how to put together a bracelet, but not sure how to begin? Or, how to end it? In this class you'll learn how to work with specialty beading threads, what a crimp bead is, and how to use it, jump rings and clasps to finish off your work of art. $22, 1 hour, materials included. (Six person limit) April 13: 7 p.m. - 8 p.m. Thursday.

Intro to Bead Netting Techniques: If you've ever wanted to make beaded bottles or ornaments, but didn't know how to start, this class is the perfect opportunity to learn how. Once learned, bead netting can be used to cover just about anything, from lighters to bottles, to shirt overlays, or anything else you can imagine! In this class, you will learn to net a decorative clear jar, which can then be used to hold treasures. Materials included: jar, beads and thread. $22, 1 1/2 to 2 hours (six person limit) April 27: 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Thursday. May 25: 7 p.m.- 9 p.m. Thursday

Basic Stringing: Necklace Design:
Want to learn how to put together a necklace, but not sure how to begin? Or, how to end it? In this class you'll learn how to work with specialty beading threads, what a crimp bead is, and how to use it, jump rings and clasps to finish off your work of art. $22, 1 hour, materials included. (Six person limit) May 11: 7 p.m. - 8 p.m. Thursday.

Wednesday, February 8, 2006

Natural Perfumery Classes

Introduction to Natural Perfumery, Parts I & II:

Ever wanted to make your own special perfume? By the end of this class, you will have constructed your own "Designer" scent...with you as the designer! $55. 2 hours each session; four hours total. Includes all materials. (six person limit)
Part I: Basic Safety Tips, Use of Carrier Oils, Use of alcohol. Proportions for blending. Blending essential oils to aid health and healing.

Part II: Designing a perfume blend. Tips on developing a recipe. Proportions for blending. Making a blend.

Feb. 18: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (includes a 45 minute break for lunch) Saturday.
March 14 & 21. 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Two consecutive Tuesdays.

Tuesday, January 10, 2006

Herbal & Aromatherapy Workshops

Pre-register at Beads N Botanicals by calling 217-283-6380 during regular business hours. Our internet shop is located at http://www.wiseweeds.net

Building Immunity Herbally:
Find out about alternative approaches to building immunity. Learn how to fight colds and flus. Includes information not only about appropriate herbs, but also essential oils and other natural approaches. $12, 1 1/2 hours (Ten person limit)
Jan. 17: 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Tuesday

Introduction to Aromatherapy:
Learn about aromatherapy--its historical and modern development. Discover the therapeutic uses of essential oils for healing, and why they work. Gain confidence in your own abilities to evaluate, purchase and blend essential oils. $12.00, 1 1/2 hours (ten person limit)
Jan. 24: 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Tuesday
April 11: 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Tuesday

Keeping Healthy with Kitchen Herbs:
Learn about common kitchen herbs and spices that can contribute to your health and that of your family. Find out how to be an "herbal guerilla" when your family doesn't want to eat healthy, but you want them to! Staying healthy can taste great! $12, 1 1/2 hours (ten person limit)
Jan. 31: 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Tuesday

Workshops in Jewelry Making & Beading

Beads N Botanicals is offering workshops starting this Thursday, January 12. You can preregister with a credit card via phone by calling 217-283-6380, during regular business hours.
Beads N Botanicals is located in Hoopeston, IL 60942

Basic Wire Working: How to Make Earrings:
This is a great starter class! You'll learn the basic techniques involved in creating sensational earrings with head pins, eye pins and ear wires. You'll make two pairs of earrings, one with a dangle. A few other earring styles will be demonstrated as well. $20, 1 hour, materials included. (Six person limit)
Jan 12: 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Thursday
Feb 16: 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Thursday
Feb 25: 12 p.m.-1 p.m. Saturday

Advanced Wire Working: Wire Wrapping Pendants:
Do you have a stone that would make a wonderful pendant? Techniques for caging tumbled and rough rocks in cages of wire will be taught. Hands-on. Bring in a top-drilled bead and a round or oval pendant (can be a tumbled stone). (Available for purchase at store) Wire will be provided. $25, 1 1/2 hours (We suggest, but do not require, Basic Wire Working: How to Make Earrings, as a prerequisite.) (Six person limit)
Jan 19: 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Thursday
Feb 25: 2 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Saturday

Intro to Bead Netting Techniques:
If you've ever wanted to make beaded bottles or ornaments, but didn't know how to start, this class is the perfect opportunity to learn how. Once learned, bead netting can be used to cover just about anything, from lighters to bottles, to shirt overlays, or anything else you can imagine! In this class, you will learn to net a decorative clear jar, which can then be used to hold treasures, or even a tea light. Materials included: jar, beads and thread. $22, 1 1/2 to 2 hours (six person limit)
Jan 26: 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Thursday
Feb 25: 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Saturday